Free Tours, Static Displays, Discounted Discovery Flights, And Grilled Hot Dogs All Available Saturday, July 16

For years we've been asking, sometimes rhetorically, "how do we get people interested in flying?" One of the best ways is probably to get them to the airport for something other than a TSA pat-down and then being herded onto a jetliner. To that end, the Hendricks County Airport-Gordon Graham Field in central Indiana is gearing up for its annual open house. Featuring a variety of entertaining activities, the free event is popular among aviation enthusiasts and families alike.

The open house will include tours of the airport, with pilots available to answer questions about general aviation and to explain flight training and pilot licensing processes. Freshly grilled hot dogs and soft drinks will be offered throughout the program.

Experimental aircraft and brand-new Cessnas will be on display, and visitors will even have the opportunity to take to the skies themselves. Discovery Flights, mini-lessons allowing someone to fly basic maneuvers or simply enjoy some spectacular sightseeing, will be available for the reduced rate of $90. Attendees will also be able to enter a chance for free flights and need not be present at the drawing to win.

Activities will run from 1000 until 1400 EDT and will proceed rain or shine, although inclement weather could prevent flight operations. The open house is sponsored by Hendricks County Aviation, which operates Indiana’s newest Cessna Pilot Center. Hendricks County Aviation also offers flight gift certificates, suitable not just for prospective pilots but anyone who appreciates the gift of flight.

FMI: www.indianapolisairport.com